“Zimbabwean Identity PVO Act”

The recently passed amendment to the Private Voluntary Organization (PVO) Act is expected to overhaul civil society regulations in Zimbabwe, said Minister of Justice, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi. The aim of the bill, which passed through the National Assembly last week, is to ensure that the sector is managed in a way that reflects the nation’s identity, while increasing financial responsibility.

Minister Ziyambi, speaking after the third reading of the bill in the National Assembly, welcomed the lively debate and comments from lawmakers, calling the bill “revolutionary.”

“This historic moment in which the PVO Act was passed by the National Assembly is largely revolutionary, enabling the sector to be governed in a way that reflects who we are as a country,” said Minister Ziyambi. He thanked parliamentarians for their input and amendments introduced to the bill during the discussion.

The draft bill amending the PVO aims to strengthen oversight of private voluntary organizations by requiring more stringent financial accounting and ensuring that organizations continue to carry out their listed functions. It also aims to prevent criminal activity disguised as charity, including money laundering and terrorist financing.

The bill is consistent with international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to prevent the misuse of charities for illegal activities, including the use of funds to sponsor terrorism or money laundering through the acquisition of real estate.

Earlier, President Mnangagwa expressed reservations about some provisions of the bill, which led to the introduction of amendments. However, the bill failed after parliament was dissolved ahead of the 2023 general elections. It has since been reintroduced and successfully passed by the National Assembly. The draft bill amending the PVO is currently awaiting submission to the Senate for further consideration.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly also passed an amendment to the Estates Administration Act which, after being re-passed by the Senate, will now be sent to President Mnangagwa for his assent. The aim of the bill is to improve the management of the estate of the deceased, in particular in terms of protecting the rights of beneficiaries such as widows, widowers and orphans.

Minister Ziyambi highlighted key changes in the Asset Management Amendment Bill, including the removal of the right of creditors to appoint executors. “The Senate found it inappropriate for creditors to participate in the appointment of executors of the will. Responsibility should rest with the next of kin, ensuring fair management of the estate,” he explained.

The bill also aims to rationalize the powers of the President of the Supreme Court, ensuring that real estate cannot be disposed of without judicial supervision. The bill will prevent the Master from unilaterally appointing or removing contractors, providing greater protection for vulnerable beneficiaries.

Minister Ziyambi praised both the National Assembly and the Senate for their critical engagement and commitment to improving the legal framework, noting that these reforms would improve fairness in the treatment of deceased estates.

“This bill will make it easier to manage estates in a way that ensures justice for beneficiaries, so I thank honorable Members of Parliament for their contribution to making it a solid piece of legislation,” he said.